Older adults value pets, but affordability pressures are rising

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Older adults are still getting substantial emotional value from pets, but affordability is becoming a bigger barrier. New findings from the University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging, released February 23, 2026, show that 55% of U.S. adults age 50 and older have a pet, and 83% of pet parents say their animals give them a sense of purpose, up from 73% in 2018. At the same time, 31% say having a pet strains their budget, compared with 18% in 2018, and 33% of adults age 50 to 80 without pets now cite cost as a reason they don’t have one. The poll also found that women, people with household income under $60,000, adults reporting fair or poor physical or mental health, and those with activity-limiting disabilities were more likely to report financial strain. (ihpi.umich.edu)

Why it matters: For veterinary professionals, the data adds to a broader affordability story already showing up in exam rooms. A January 2026 Gallup report found 94% of veterinarians say clients’ finances sometimes or often limit recommended care, and PetSmart Charities-Gallup research has reported that many pet parents who decline care due to cost say they weren’t offered a more affordable option. For practices serving older adults, that raises the stakes on transparent estimates, phased treatment plans, preventive care conversations, and referrals to community support such as low-cost clinics or pet food assistance. (news.gallup.com)

What to watch: Expect more discussion around access-to-care models, senior-focused client communication, and how practices can support older pet parents without compromising care standards. (news.gallup.com)